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In Order. Guidelines

December 1, 2017

by Robert McClendon

December 1, 2017. 1 Corinthians 9-11.

In every family there are some sort of guidelines. In some families the guidelines may be very strict and precise. In other families the guidelines are very loose and random. Even in families where there are no guidelines, for that family the guideline is, there are no guidelines. One aspect of these family guidelines is how they often begin with a basic foundational guideline from which all of the other guidelines emanate.

That picture of family guidelines is what we are reading today. Several guidelines for those who are believers and therefore part of God’s family, beginning with the basic foundational guideline.

1Corinthians 10:31Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.

The basic guideline for the life of every believer is “do all to the glory of God.” In our passage today we are given some specific guidelines in a couple of areas of our life so that we will be “doing” to the glory of God.

How about those times when we are tempted to do wrong?

1Corinthians 10:13No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.

When we see the way of escape, and take it, we are “doing,” to the glory of God. Glory to a God who makes a way of escape from the things that could destroy a close relationship with Him.

How about living our lives when it comes to others?

1Corinthians 10:23-24 All things are lawful for me, but not all things are helpful; all things are lawful for me, but not all things edify. Let no one seek his own, but each one the other’s well-being.

1Corinthians 9:22bI have become all things to all men, that I might by all means save some.

When we do those things that will edify and build up our life and the life of others, we are “doing,” for the glory of God. When we take action on behalf of the well-being of others we are “doing,” for the glory of God. When we live, mold and shape our lives with the purpose of some being saved, we are “doing,” for the glory of God.

Finally how do we go about our life in general?

1Corinthians 9:23,27 (NLB) I do everything to spread the Good News and share in its blessings. I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should.

When we do everything we can to spread the Gospel, to enjoy its blessings, and to discipline ourselves so we are doing all for the glory of God, then we are following the basic foundational guideline our Father has for our life.